Training Your EverOak Puppy

A Preservation-Minded Approach to Raising a Confident Companion

At EverOak Labradors & Sussex Spaniels, we believe that early training shapes the dog your puppy will become. Because temperament and sound mind are central to our preservation program, we strongly encourage positive, ethical, relationship-based training methods.

We do not recommend large retail chain training programs or celebrity-style training approaches that rely on intimidation, correction-heavy techniques, or outdated dominance theory. Training should never be rooted in fear, shame, or harsh correction — those experiences can permanently damage trust and confidence, particularly in sensitive, intelligent breeds like the Labrador and Sussex Spaniel.

Your goal is not simply obedience — it is partnership.

Choosing the Right Training Program

We recommend enrolling your puppy in a qualified, accredited obedience class once he or she reaches approximately 16 weeks of age and has completed age-appropriate vaccinations, including Rabies (confirm with your veterinarian).

When selecting a trainer or facility:

• Ask about formal accreditation or certifications
• Look for trainers who use positive reinforcement methods
• Avoid programs that rely on fear-based or punitive correction
• Consider reputable local kennel clubs or performance-based trainers
• A well-run puppy class should focus on:
• Socialization
• Confidence building
• Engagement
• Clear communication between you and your puppy

Remember — training is as much for you as it is for your dog.

Recommended Reading for New Puppy Owners

The following books and resources are highly regarded in the dog training community and align with thoughtful, relationship-based methods. Many are classics and remain relevant across generations.

Labrador-Specific Guidance

The Complete Labrador Handbook: The Essential Guide for New & Prospective Labrador Owners  – Linda Whitwam (Author)
Excellent book whether it is for your first or your tenth Labrador.

Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Month By Month – Terry Albert & Debra Eldridge, DVM
A practical guide through the first year and beyond — covering development, health, nutrition, socialization, and training.

Foundational Training Philosophy

Don’t Shoot the Dog – Karen Pryor
A cornerstone book on positive reinforcement and shaping behavior.

The Power of Positive Dog Training – Pat Miller
Builds on modern positive training principles.

Culture Clash – Jean Donaldson
Insightful look at how dogs perceive the world.

The Other End of the Leash – Patricia McConnell
A thoughtful exploration of human behavior and how it affects dogs.

Practical Puppy Raising

How To Raise a Puppy You Can Live With – Rutherford & Neil
A long-standing classic.

The Perfect Puppy – Gwen Bailey
Clear, structured approach to puppy development.

Art of Raising a Puppy – The Monks of New Skete
A well-known and respected resource.

How to Be Your Dog’s Best Friend – The Monks of New Skete

Puppy Primer – Brenda Scidmore & Patricia McConnell

Retriever-Specific & Performance Resources

Retriever Working Certificate Training – Rutherford, Branstad & Whicker
Retriever Puppy Training: The Right Start for Hunting – Loveland & Rutherford
Sound Beginnings Retriever Training – Jackie Mertens (DVD)
Training a Retriever Puppy – Bill Hillmann (DVD)
The Fetch Command – Bill Hillmann (DVD)

These are especially helpful for families interested in working ability, field training, or performance development.

Understanding Canine Behavior

If A Dog’s Prayers Were Answered… – Suzanne Clothier
Focuses on deepening the human-canine relationship.

Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps: Everything You Need to Know to Raise the Perfect Dog -  Zoom Room Dog Training (Author), Mark Van Wye (Author)
Raise a happy, well-behaved puppy in 7 simple steps

A Final Word from EverOak

Training is not a phase — it is a lifelong conversation between you and your dog.

Our preservation program focuses on producing Labradors and Sussex Spaniels with stable temperaments, intelligence, and working instinct. It is your role to nurture those qualities through patient, consistent, and positive leadership.

Invest the time. Build the relationship. Protect the trust.

Your EverOak puppy deserves nothing less.

Rooted in Faith • Committed for a Lifetime